Cougar, I'm struggling with how to answer your question regarding recoil comparison between the two guns. It has been awhile since I've shot either gun and I don't know that I've ever shot them side by side. IMHO recoil isn't an issue with either cartridge though. Hope that helps.

The 41 would be a good choice since you already have brass and dies. My 9" gun shoots 210's just shy of 1600 fps iirc. I've had good luck with xtps and Remington jsps.

Here's a few 41 mag deer...it works!